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Northern Ireland Schools to Implement Stricter Mobile Phone Policies

Education Minister Paul Givan issues new guidelines to curb phone use during school hours, aiming to enhance focus and learning.

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Two teenage girls, dressed in black and white school uniforms, chatting and looking at their mobile phones in the school corridor next to their lockers (stock image)

Overview

  • Guidance advises schools to restrict mobile phone use throughout the school day, including breaks and lunchtimes.
  • Some schools already have similar policies, but the new guidelines seek a consistent approach across all institutions.
  • Pilot programs include innovative solutions like magnetically sealed pouches to prevent phone access during school hours.
  • Research indicates that limiting phone use can improve academic engagement and reduce distractions.
  • The guidelines are not legally binding but are expected to be widely adopted for better classroom environments.